PGA Tour prodigy's future uncertain after fracturing eye socket in freak pro-am accident

Rising Australian golf talent Jeffrey Guan drew comparisons to 2022 Open champion, but his career is in jeopardy after suffering 'awful' injuries in a pro-am accident

Australian golf prospect Jeffrey Guan made his PGA Tour debut last month, but the 20-year-old's career is in jeopardy after his eye socket was fractured in a freak accident during a Pro-am event.

Guan made his bow on the big stage at the Procore Championship in California last month before rushing back down under to compete in a qualifier for the New South Wales Open at Catalina Club Batemans Bay near Canberra on September 20.

What had been a dream month for the youngster turned into a nightmare when he was hit in the face by ball after an errant shot with a 3-wood by a player taking part in the pro-am. Guan was rushed to the Australian capital by paramedics for emergency eye surgery.

Guan's coach, Paul Davis, told Australian Golf Digest: “It’s truly awful. This was actually the first pro-am Jeff has ever played in. It’s just the worst possible news after such an amazing week in California.”

Guan had suffered multiple eye socket fractures, with fears his eyesight may be compromised. On Wednesday, Golf Australia, Golf NSW and the PGA of Australia confined he had been discharged from Sydney Eye Hospital, although he faces a long road ahead in his recovery.

“While he is no longer under constant medical supervision, there is still no clear timeline for his recovery, and the long-term prognosis remains uncertain at this stage. Jeff’s recovery is only just beginning, and it is expected to be a long and challenging journey.

“[We] remain mindful of the community’s ongoing concern following his recent on-course accident. The three organisations continue to maintain close daily contact with Jeffrey’s family, offering support as they navigate the challenges ahead.

“We are dedicated to ensuring that Jeffrey receives the best possible medical care and that his family is assisted in every way during this difficult time.

“Once again, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone for their ongoing messages of kindness and support and will continue to provide updates on Jeffrey’s progress as appropriate.”

Guan, who turned professional last year, shot one-under-par across his opening two rounds at the Procore Championship, missing the cut by a single stroke. He has a peak ranking of 874 in the Official World Golf Ranking and currently occupies 1,001st place.

Tony Barter, director of teaching at The Australian Golf Club, told Golf Australia in 2022 that Guan was a "One in 10-year talent", comparing him to 2022 Open champion Cam Smith.

Guan spent this season playing on the Asian Tour, Challenge Tour and PGA Tour of Australasia after making his DP World Tour at the Australian PGA Championship on 2023.